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Rides and attractions, backlot tours, movie stars and a great hotel. Los Angeles, California's Universal City is sounding good and good value.

There's no shortage of star power atop Universal City, California.   At 40 years of age, one of Hollywood's most iconic stars proves it's not "over the hill" as it celebrates with a fresh new look. Known as the "Hotel of the Stars," it has made its mark on entertainment history by serving as the backdrop for countless films and television shows, the most recent of which are "Desperate Housewives," "Chuck" and "CSI."

It was home for 17 years to Telly Savalas, and has hosted stars that include Tom Hanks, George Clooney, Jennifer Aniston, B.B. King and Matthew McConaughy. It is also the "Hotel of the Pet Stars" for pet celebrities who often appear on popular TV shows. This place has hosted Gibson, the World's Tallest Dog as well as baby tigers, leopards, monkeys and a giant sea turtle.

The Hotel of the Stars

The casual, chic, family-friendly Sheraton Universal, with themes and furnishings from the 1920's through the 1940's Regency style, is at once relaxing and stimulating, making it an ideal homebase for intergenerational families to stay and play.

The newly refurbished 451 guestrooms include a three-floor poolside Lanai wing and 31 suites, plus a Shrek-themed suite to delight the younger set. Many of the rooms are connected, and roll-aways, cribs, and baby accessories are available. Children stay free with adults, and babysitting services are arranged through the Concierge.

The hotel amenities include wireless internet throughout, the Link@Sheraton communications hub, a Club Lounge, an outdoor pool, and a 24-hour Fitness Center that features cardiovascular and weight equipment. Also offered is the Gym-in-a-Bag which contains fitness tools for exercise in the comfort and privacy of your guestroom. Sheraton is pet-friendly, so special amenities including in-room water and food dishes are available, and pet sitters/walkers are provided upon request.

The hotel's California's Restaurant is overseen by Executive Chef Urs Balmer whose culinary delights blend local cuisine, international light snacks and elegant dining. Start the day with the traditional or healthy start light menus, or the Buffet. Casual lunches are served, and in the evening, the restaurant transforms to elegant dining with white cloths and candlelight. For a "date night" and an ultra romantic meal, the 40th Anniversary Prix Fixe Dinner is a sumptuous five-course event with the option of accompanying wines. The mouthwatering dessert of assorted truffles can also be delivered to your room.

For the kids there's the "Bright-Eyed Classic Breakfast", and the "Dig In for Lunch and Dinner" menu of mini-burgers, gooey grilled cheese, tender turkey wrap, crispy chicken bits with a choice of carrot and celery sticks, fruit cup or French fries. If room has been saved for dessert, treats include Haagen-Dazs ice cream, low fat fruit or berry yogurt or a fruit berry cup. There is no dining charge for children under 5.